Severe weather can happen wherever, so most homeowners are no strangers to storm damage. Hurricanes, tornadoes, ice storms and hail can affect many portions of your property, including the landscape, roof, siding and windows.
High winds and flooding are also major concerns for outdoor heating and cooling equipment. In extreme weather, equipment may be forced out of position, often falling over and damaging electrical systems and refrigerant lines. Even when systems stay upright, they will sometimes accumulate mud and other materials, which must be removed before they can operate correctly.
For your safety when examining your storm-damaged home, don’t turn on the HVAC system until it has gotten the all-clear from a heating and cooling contractor. The trick is knowing who to hire for the job. After all, any random person with a truck can claim they’re an HVAC technician. An unqualified person tampering with your heating and cooling could make matters worse, not to mention overcharge you and then disappear without a trace.
Incidents like these may escalate during storm cleanup. To avoid being taken advantage of, learn the top six questions to ask when hiring a heating and cooling contractor.
The majority of states have licensing and insurance requirements for HVAC contractors. This delivers peace of mind that whoever works on your system has the appropriate training and coverage in case an accident takes place. Additional ACE certification only further supports a contractor’s ability to ensure high-quality service.
While length of service alone doesn’t guarantee a contractor will do a good job, it shows that they are proficient enough to stay in business for the long term. If you are able to, look up the company’s name online to verify that they’re telling the truth about their experience.
While you’re at it, research the contractors you’re considering on Google and other third-party review websites. Testimonials from past customers present a good idea of what to expect.
For even more specific answers, check with potential contractors for the contact info of past customers. As you contact these references and check online reviews, seek answers to the following questions:
You want assurance that the HVAC staff who complete the work are clean, dependable and safe to have around your family. For total peace of mind, ask the contractor if background checks and drug tests are mandated before adding new hires to the team.
If the storm damage is severe enough to wipe out your HVAC system, you may need a new one. However, it isn’t enough to simply swap out one furnace and air conditioner for another. After all, an HVAC system is only as good as the ductwork it’s attached to. So if you’re looking at HVAC replacement after a storm, ask potential contractors these questions:
A written, itemized estimate is crucial when comparing bids from multiple HVAC contractors. Look for a company that offers free estimates and transparent, direct pricing. Also, be sure to ask whether the company charges per hour or by the job so you know what you’re paying for. Just remember that the lowest bid isn’t necessarily the best deal, namely if it’s far lower than the others. Odds are the contractor will either cut corners to make the price doable or sneak in hidden fees at the end.
Getting your HVAC system back up and running after a severe storm isn’t always low cost. That’s why it’s worthwhile to ask about any savings you may qualify for when repairing or replacing your equipment. Also, find out what financing and leasing options the contractor offers as an easier way to cover unexpected HVAC services following a storm.
Do you need a reputable contractor to fix your HVAC system after a natural disaster? You can’t go wrong with BW/Cook Service Experts. We are a national company with hometown heart, a combination that helps us stay ahead of the competition. If you prioritize affordable prices, long-lasting results and total satisfaction, we can meet your needs to a tee. Get in touch with your local BW/Cook Service Experts office for help inspecting and repairing your HVAC system.
Student loan debt in the USA has been a growing issue for a very long time. Today’s total student debt soars over $1.7 trillion, with the average college graduate owing $20,000 to $25,000. If you’re thinking about your academic journey or counseling someone who is, it’s crucial to weigh the... Continue reading
By Brian Sodoma, for Service Experts With autumn around the corner, homeowners will soon be planning for the cold months ahead. Cold weather puts additional demand on your heating and cooling system. To prepare your heating system for the heavy work it will need to do, scheduled HVAC maintenance... Continue reading
The HVAC profession is in a constant state of change. With technological innovations and growing environmental concerns, the skills required of HVAC professionals are evolving faster than ever. Preparing to adapt and satisfy these new challenges is a must for anyone wanting to join the profession.... Continue reading
© 2023 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. *Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.